KAPOK

Other names: Java cotton, Java kapok,ceiba

Scientific name: Ceiba pentandra

Description: This is an erect, deciduous tree, 15 m high.  The trunk is cylindrical, usually bearing scattered, large spines.  The branches are in distant whorls, and spread horizontally.  The leaves are compound with 5-8 lanceolate leaflets. 6-15 cm long, pointed on both ends.


Parts Used: flowers, leaves, fruits

Medicinal Properties and Uses:

The bark is used as a vomitive/emetic and diuretic.  It is used to treat fever and diarrhea.  It is also applied on wounds and swollen fingers.

A decoction of the flowers is used for constipation.

An infusion of the leaves is used for cough, hoarseness, intestinal catarrh and urethritis.  the tender leaves are administered for gonorrhea.

The unripe fruit is regarded as a demulcent (soothing medicine; provides a protective coating on mucus membranes) and an astringent.

The tender fruit is used as emollient.

A decoction of the roots is given for chronic dysentery, diarrhea, ascites (abnormal accumulation of serous fluid in the abdominal cavity) and anasarca (edema characterized by the accumulation of serum in the connective tissue of the body).

The gum is an astringent and useful as a styptic (having a harsh acrid, acid flavor).  It is given with milk as a cooling laxative to children.  It is also used for incontinence of urine of children


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Cayenne Peppers

Scientific name: Capsicum annuum

Description:

Densely branched and growing to a large perennial shrub, the capsicum is productive in warm and dry climates and is said to have originated in French Guiana. The flowers are off-white, sometimes purplish color and the fruit is a berry which turns yellow, green or red when ripe. These fruits are dried and grounded to produce these pungent cayenne pepper.  The Cayenne pepper is one of the spices derived from these species of Capsicum.

Capsicum is a catalyst herb.

Part/s Used: Ripe Fruits

Health Benefits:

Cayenne Pepper is high in vitamins and minerals that are needed for healing. It has a rich supply of vitamin C and vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), beta-carotene and carotenes which are antioxidants that helps prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It also contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9 (folic acid), cobalt and zinc.  Cayenne pepper/Capsicum is also very rich in organic calcium and potassium - minerals that are good for the heart.


Medicinal Properties and Uses:
Capsicum or Cayenne pepper is a medicinal and nutritional herb with constituents like capsaicin, oleic, palmitic and stearic acids and have been used as both food and medicine.

For oral medicine:  Put one or two tablespoons of dried and grounded cayenne pepper into warm water.

For liniment (external use): In one pint of cider vinegar, boil 1 Tablespoon of hot pepper. Do not strain and do not place in a bottle while hot.

As a catalyst herb, the cayenne or capsicum will increase the power of all other herbs. The stimulating properties of the cayenne pepper speed up the absorption and effectiveness of any herbs taken in combination with it.

For example:
Combined with garlic & parsley, Cayenne will help lower blood pressure.

Combine Capsicum and Plantain and apply externally to remove splinter and draw out foreign objects embedded in the skin.


Capsicum/cayenne pepper has been proven beneficial for:

Arthritis - Cayenne or capsicum is used externally as a remedy for painful joints by stimulating blood flow to the affected area and reducing inflammation and discomfort. Liniments (see below for the recipe) can be applied everyday to ease pain.


Cardiovascular disease - it significantly lowers serum cholesterol and serum triglycerides. It regulates blood flow and strengthens the arteries, possibly preventing heart attacks.


Chronic fatigue and depression - Capsicum stimulates energy.
Gastric ulcers - it stimulates the protective mucus-forming membranes of the stomach.

Impotence caused by venous insufficiency

Pain relief, vascular headaches - Cayenne/capsicum is rich in salicylates (an analgesic and a natural aspirin-like compounds). Cayenne are rubefacients that warms the body by quickly dilating small capillaries, and increasing circulation.

Psoriasis - Capsaicin is a potent constituent found in cayenne and has been shown to be effective in treating the symptoms of psoriasis.

Sore Throat - a small amount of cayenne pepper sprinkled in water and gargled will cure sore throat.

Toothaches - Pound cayenne pepper and put an oil.  Soak a cotton into the cayenne oil and plug it into the affected tooth.

Wounds - use a poultice and apply on wound for quick healing.



Warning: Don't touch your eyes with your hands after handling Cayenne peppers. This is also counterindicated in individuals suffering from irritable bowel syndrome or chronic bowel inflammation.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Spinach

Scientific name: Spinacia oleracea

Description:

It is an edible annual flowering plant native to central and southwestern Asia. It grows to a height of up to 30 cm with alternate ovate to triangular-based leaves.  The leaves varies in size with the larger ones at the base of the plant. The flowers are yellow-green that matures into a small, dry, lumpy cluster about 5–10 mm and contain several seeds.

Spinach can be eaten raw in a salad or it can be lightly cooked and eaten as a dish or added to soups or made into green smoothie. It is easy to find spinach in the market and it is easy to grow.

Part used: Leaves

Health Benefits:

Spinach is one of the most nutritious foods available as it provides more nutrients than any other food.  It is renowned for its high iron content, very high in vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, folate, manganese, calcium, vitamin B2 and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, dietary fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.

Spinach has at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that are good antioxidants and act as anti-cancer substances.


Medicinal uses and properties:

Cardiovascular/ Lowers Blood pressure - It is considered as a heart-healthy food as it is loaded with vitamins C, A and folate which are antioxidants. Folate is believe to convert harmful chemicals into harmless compounds.

Diabetes - The magnesium contained in spinach helps prevent diabetes.

Arthritis, osteoporosis - spinach has anti-inflammatory properties.

Migraine headaches, Asthma - also because of the anti-inflammatory properties present in spinach.

Cancer - fresh spinach abounds in cancer-fighting antioxidants. It contains a number of flavonoid compounds and kaempferol which is a strong antioxidant that prevents the formation of cancerous cells.

Cataract and macular degeneration - the  carotenoid found in spinach that is helpful against these eye diseases.

Soothes burns - The leaves are soaked in hot olive oil or soybean oil. Cooled down and applied on affected area.

Kidney or bladder disease - Crush spinach leaves, put a teaspoon in a cup of boiling water. Cover for 15 mins and strain. It is used as a diuretic and consumed in doses of 2 cups/day.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS. AVOID SELF-DIAGNOSIS AND SELF-MEDICATION.

Green Tea

Scientific name: Camellia sinesis

Other common names: Green tea extract, Chinese tea

Description:

Green tea has been consumed for many centuries and made from the steamed and dried leaves of the Camellia sinesis. Camellia sinesis is a shrub native to Asia.

Today, there are different types of green tea - some are more useful and beneficial than others. Many varieties of green tea created in countries where they are grown differ substantially on many factors like harvesting time, horticulture and production processing. The best sources of green tea are those that are from the dried leaves of Camellia sinesis and cultivated with use of 100% organic processes.

Benefits of Green Tea:

The key component is epigallocatechin gallete (EGCG) a major antioxidant that is abundant in Camelia Sinensis plant. It is also rich in other antioxidants like flavonoids, catechins and their derivatives. Aside from those, green tea contains tocopherols, carotenoids, , ascorbic acid, manganese, chromium, selenium or zinc, and some phytochemical compounds.


* Green tea has been shown to induce thermogenesis and increase a person’s metabolism

* helps decrease blood sugar

* effectively lower risk of atherosclerosis

* lower the risk of developing heart disease and certain types of cancer

* improves the ratio of LDL (bad) to HDL (good) cholesterol. Green tea has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and lipid peroxides (free radicals).

Precautions:

Take herbs with care as they can trigger side effects and may interact with other herbs, medications or supplements,and




THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS.

Mugwort

 
Scientific name: Artemisia vulgaris

(Also know as Felon Herb, St. John's Plant, Artemisa, Carline   Thistle and closely related to common wormwood)

Description:

It is a perennial herb native to Africa and abounds on hedge banks and waysides in most parts of England. This tall-growing shrubby plant, has angular stems, often of a purplish hue, rising 3 feet or more in height. The
leaves are smooth and of a dark green tint on the upper surface, and covered with a dense cottony down beneath. They are alternate, pinnately lobed, and the segments being lance-shaped and pointed. The small oval flowers are greenish yellow and are arranged in long, terminal panicles with a cottony appearance.

This shrub has been known since the ancient times and used for centuries as an alternative medicine for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, hemostatic,  purgative, stimulant, and cleansing
properties. It is also slightly tonic and is of value as a nervine and emmenagogue. Mugwort also has diuretic and diaphoretic action.


Parts Used: Leaves, Stem, roots


The leaves and stems are usually gathered in August and let dry for later herb use. The roots are dug in autumn, cleansed and dried.

Medicinal Properties and Uses:

Constituents: A volatile oil, a sesquiterpene lactone, flavonoids, coumarin derivatives, and triterpenes, an acrid resin and tannin.

* An infusion of the leaves and flowering tops (1 ounce of the herb to 1 pint of boiling water prepared in a covered vessel and given in 1/2 teaspoonful doses, while warm. It is used in the treatment of all conditions
related to the digestive system like bloating, hyperacidity...  and is good for the liver and jaundice.

In similar dose (1/2 teaspoonful), the infusion may be taken cold as a tonic, three times daily.

* As a gargle for sore throat, a wash for sores.

* As a poultice for infections, tumors and to stop bleeding of the uterus.

As a decoction, Mugwort can be used to ease menstrual pain and is also use to reduce and to stop excessive and heavy menstrual bleeding.

* Expel intestinal worms. The leaves have an antibacterial action that inhibits the growth of Staphococcus aureus, Bacillus typhi, pseudomonas, B. dysenteriae, streptococci, B. subtilis, and E. coli.

* The juice and an infusion of the herb were given for intermittent fevers and are good against agues (alternating periods of chills, fever, and sweating associated with malaria).

* As a nervine, it is a popular folklore remedy for epilepsy, palsy and hysterical fits.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED/TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE
TRYING THIS.

PARSLEY

Scientific name: Petroselinum crispum

Description:

Also known as “rock celery” and belongs to the Umbelliferae family of plants.

One of the world's most popular herb. It is a biennial plant that grows in most climates and is readily available throughout the year.

Parsley has flavonoids that act as anti-oxidants. It is also rich in vitamins A and  contains more vitamin C (approximately three times as much as oranges). It is a good source of manganese (2.7mg per 100g), calcium (245mg per 100g) and iron (5.5mg per100g (4oz).

Medicinal Uses:

Eating raw parsley mitigate risks of atherosclerosis  because it cleanses the blood, dissolves sticky deposits in veins, maintains elasticity of blood vessels.

It settles the stomach and improves the appetite.

Parsley contains some components of the female hormone estrogen and it has been used to treat women who suffer from problems such as irregular menstruation.

Parsley is effective for nearly all kidney and urinary complaints. It acts as a diuretic and helps improve edema, ease fatigue and scanty or painful urination.

Parsley is also good as a topical remedy for bruises. Crush some parsley leaves and apply straight to the affected area.

Chewing parsley prevents bad breath as well!

When checking for parsley benefits and side effects it is still best to consult your doctor and seek medical advice.

THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED & TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.

Fennel

Scientific Name: Foeniculum vulgare

Description:

Fennel are strongly aromatic herb with yellow umbrella-like inflorescence flower.  The fruit looks like the unhusked rice grain and is very aromatic.

Parts Used: Ripe fruit (dried)

Medicinal Uses:

1. Relieves Dysmenorrhea, Indigestion and Stomachache

Fennel Tea - Boil dried fruits in water.

2. Drinking Fennel Tea also prevents gout and treat jaundice

3. Fainting - Sniff the pounded fruit




THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED & TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED
AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE TRYING THIS.

Lavender

Scientific Name: Lavandula angustifolia (also Lavandula spica or Lavandula vera; formerly  Lavandula officinalis

Description: Lavender grows in temperate climate especially in hilly areas. It is an evergreen shrub with thick silvery leaves.  It's flower consist of numerous small thick tubular lavender-colour flowers that yield abundant nectar.

Parts Used:
Flowers and Leaves

Uses:

1. Muscle Pain/Arthritis/Sprain/Headaches

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, massaging lavander essential oil can ease pain caused by sprain, arthritis, joint pains, sore muscles and headaches.

Note: lavender oil can also be a powerful allergen and must be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

2. Ease Nervous Tension/Anxiety
Lavender essential oil is used to calm the nerves. The scent of lavender is known to relieve emotional stress, anxiety, depression and nervous tension due to its calming effect. Use a scent diffuser or a lavender scented candle.  Some would also put a lavender soap inside a pillow to induce sleep.

3. Psoriasis/Sunburn

Lavender is known to be a powerful antiseptic and antifungal. Use as bath oils.

Lavender Tea:

Decoction of leaves and flower are used also as herbal tea.



THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED & TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.

Avocado (Alligator pear)

Scientific Name: Persea americana

Description: This medium-sized tree is a native of tropical America.  The leaves are dark green and greyish green underneath. The flowers are small, clustered and yellowish- green.  The fruit is elongated thus the name alligator pear with a yellowish –green flesh surrounding a single large seed.

Health Benefits: Avocado provides protein and contains vitamins, minerals,fiber and antioxidants such as beta-sitosterol, glutathione and lutein.  It has no cholesterol and sodium. It is high in folate and provides more than 25 essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin E, C, B-vitamins, iron, copper, panthothenic acid, niacin, phosphorus and magnesium. Avocado also provides calories for energy (the fat in avocado is mostly monounsaturated).

Parts used:

Leaves (fresh and sundried)

Bark (Sundried)

Seed (Sundried)

Indication and direction of use:

Rheumatism – Finely grind the sundried bark and sundried seed. Mix it with oil.  Rub on the affected area.

Wound wash – Boil leaves in a pot of water. Let it cool and use it as a wash.

Neuralgia – Mix the finely ground bark and seed (both sundried).  Add oil to the mixture.  Rub on affected area.

How to Make Avocado Tea –Take 30 g of finely chopped dried avocado leaves.  Boil in 2 glasses of water for 15 minutes or so.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED & TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.

Wheatgrass (Wheat grass / wheat-grass)

Scientific name: Triticum aestivum

Description:

The wheatgrass is harvested while still green and before it develops grain kernels and turns the usual yellow color associated with wheat stalks.  It is part of the cereal grass family like rye, barley and oats.  Wheat grass is commonly prepared as a juice, and is consumed either alone, or as a mixture with other juices. It has high alkaline and is a good source of many nutrients.

Health Benefits of Wheatgrass:

Wheatgrass has more protein than chicken.   It contains chlorophyll, 17 amino acids, 10 minerals, 13 vitamins, and enzymes.  It has a higher Vitamin A content than spinach and is rich in Vitamin E and Vitamin B12.  Wheatgrass is high in magnesium, phosphorus and calcium (higher than that of broccoli).   The chlorophyll helps to remove heavy metals that cause cancer and also lower the risks of colon cancer. Wheatgrass helps strengthen the immune system and is a powerful detoxifier that may prevent cellular damage.

Wheatgrass increases red blood cell (RBC) count, restores alkalinity to the blood and lowers blood pressure.

Wheatgrass has also been found to relieve constipation, peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea and other ailments of the gastrointestinal tract. What's more it has anti-inflammatory properties.

When eaten raw, wheatgrass contains beneficial enzymes.

Indications and Directions for use:

1.    Removes Dandruff - Rubbed into the scalp before shampooing, it will help alleviate itchy and scaly scalp conditions.

2.    Skin Allergies/ Sunburn/Rashes - Applying on the affected area can help eliminate itching almost immediately.  It acts as a disinfectant as well.


3.    Cuts/ Burns/ Scrapes/ Insect bites/ Boils/ Sores – Use as a poultice and replace every 2 to 4 hours.

4.    Athlete's foot - Add some to your bath water and settle in for a soothing, relaxing soak.


5.    Insomnia - Tuck some fresh wheatgrass inside one of your pillows or simply put it on your beside table.  It will enhance the oxygen in the air and create healthful negative ions to help you sleep soundly. Sleep pillows containing a mixture of aromatic herbs like lavender, chamomile can also be helpful in promoting sleep.

6.    Constipation, peptic ulcers, ulcerative colitis and diarrhea – take wheatgrass as juice.

7.    Gum problems – Gargle wheatgrass juice.


THOUGH THE CONTENT OF THIS BLOG HAD BEEN TRIED & TESTED AND HAD BEEN USED AS FOLK/HERBAL MEDICINE IT IS STILL BEST TO CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR.